Sheikh Saleh al Shaibi, the chief key holder and custodian of the holy Kaaba in Makkah, passed away on Saturday, after a prolonged illness, Gulf News reported.

Al Shaibi was the 109th successor in a line that dates back to Uthman bin Talha, a companion of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was originally entrusted with the key to the Kaaba.

He took over the role of caretaker in 2013 and was the 77th member of his family to serve in this capacity, a tradition that has spanned centuries.

The family’s duties include managing the affairs of the Kaaba, cleaning, washing, ironing, and repairing its Kiswa (cover), as well as receiving visitors and handling all related tasks.

Al Shaibi was a scholar in his own right, holding a doctorate in Islamic studies and authoring several books on religion and history.

Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have expressed their grief over the passing of Al Shaibi.

The burial will take place at the Al Mu’alla Cemetery in Makkah.